Mr Bongani Msomi
UDM Secretary General
The United Democratic Movement (UDM) is utterly disgusted with the decision taken by both National and Provincial Department of Health to terminate the contacts of the temporary workers appointed during outbreak of the Covid-19.
The contribution of these workers made it possible for the government to mitigate the effects of the pandemic. They were prepared to risk their lives as some paid the ultimate price. For those who were lucky, the department see it fit to thank them in this way. Laying them off though there is a big outcry at all health facilities for being short staffed.
The department’s decision shows that government does not have a vision nor a plan to turn things around as they promise. Some of these workers have spent a number of years in the health service and are now being required to leave the service with the experience they have accumulated, a service which is so desperately needed.
The UDM is calling upon the department to abandon its plan to lay off these workers. If there is a need to re-adjust the budget, let it be. The UDM supports whatever step that may be taken by the workers in order for them to be heard. It is unfortunate that our government is not responsive.
The UDM calls on the Minister of Health Dr Joe Phaahla to reinstate all the Covid-19 appointees and all other temporary workers as they are experienced and prepared to work.
Issued by:
Mr Bongani Msomi
UDM Secretary General
